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Friday, December 17, 2010

After spending the past 25 years at the helm of the St. Benedict’s Prep boys’ soccer team, Rick Jacobs has joined Philadelphia Union as the Vice President of Operations, the club announced today. Jacobs, who left as the all-time leader in winning percentage among high school coaches (94%) in the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, will oversee day-to-day and event operations for the Union.

“Having the opportunity to join Philadelphia Union is both exhilarating and challenging,” said Jacobs. “I feel fortunate to be able to join Nick [Sakiewicz, Philadelphia Union CEO & Operating Partner] and a remarkable group of like-minded individuals who are professional and passionate about delivering exciting, championship soccer to Philadelphia. Their championship culture is one I am familiar with and I look forward to helping us achieve our goal of being the most admired brand in Major League Soccer.”

During Jacobs’ tenure, St. Benedict’s won six national titles and compiled an unprecedented 519-27-13 record, including a 131 game winning streak, which is the second longest unbeaten streak in U.S. high school soccer history. Jacobs led soccer stars like Claudio Reyna, Petter Villegas and Greg Berhalter to 23 state titles, including a national record setting 21 in a row, and 10 New Jersey Star Ledger #1 rankings. He was just as active off the field, serving as the Director of Student Services (1991-’97), the Director of the Starfire Career Development Center (2001-’05) and the Director of Development (2004-‘06), concentrating on major gifts.

"Rick brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the areas of professional management, administration, personnel development and a deep passion for soccer,” said Sakiewicz. “The combination of these skills and experience make him a great addition to our back office organization and we are very excited to have him on board.”

Jacobs has also worked as an account executive for international apparel giant adidas and handled marketing for several international soccer tournaments and national high school basketball festivals. In addition, he has served on the executive boards for various athletic and religious organizations, including the Claudio Reyna Foundation.